Let’s get real here. This trade brings very little to the Rapids at all right now in midfielder Mohammed Saeid, and winger Josh Gatt. The most that it brings is an international slot for the Rapids. And that we should see more time for Nana Boateng on the pitch in Cronin’s spot. Losing both Cronin and Burch will hurt, but we as supporters and the team must move forward, with I would guess Howard to now wear the captain’s armband.

The hope here according to some internet rumors are that the Rapids are going for more firepower in the summer transfer window in possibly Aron Jóhannsson of Bundesliga side, Werder Bremen.

Rapids opening at home the first week of the season is of course exciting, even if the opponent are the New England Revolution on March 4th, kickoff at 4pm(CST). The Rapids hit the road the following weekend at RBNY on March 11th.

Looking at the comments on the top Americans in MLS 2016 article on mlssoccer.com, there is a lack of respect for our captain. Clearly I’m a bit biased, but I’m certain to say that some of those commenters didnt watch how Cronin along with Azira anchored the defensive midfield in front of the back four in 2016. Also clearly for some reading comprehension is a problem where the title It didnt say Top Americans in MLS all-time, but in 2016.

Looks as if the Rapids are again crossing the pond for hidden talent with Nick Sabetti reporting via sportingnews.com that sources are reporting that Boateng is close to signing with the Rapids. This will be something to keep an eye on over the next few days and weeks.

The GOOD – 3 massive points on the road! Dominique Badji’s 2 goals. 2 points within league leading FC Dallas. The winning goal by Shkelzen Gashi. Powers 2 assists on the night! Most points of the season with 54 so far by any team in Rapids history! First round bye in the playoffs.The BAD – The 2 sloppy goals given up by the Rapids defense. No Sam Cronin, suspended for the next match due to yellow card accumulation.The UGLY – The remaining 3 games of the regular season are against teams with better quality than the Dynamo. If the Rapids don’t raise their game in some fashion and run the table, the Supporters Shield is out of the question.That begins Thursday at home against San Jose.

SUMMARY – Good to see the Rapids use their bench and get minutes for Castillo, Greenspan and Calvert, even if it comes due to exhaustion to Gashi, Badji and Le Toux. These minutes are important going into these last three games for these players.

Man Of The Match – Dom Badji

LOOKING AHEAD – With Cronin out against his old team San Jose, I expect Powers to move into his position as DM along side Azira and Gashi to move into Powers position as the #10, assuming Hairston is available to play the wing. If Hairston isn’t available then I think it’s possible though highly unlikely that we could see Pappa on the wing, leaving Gashi as the #10.

No word on Doyle’s availability, as well as Burling, or Jones for this match.

Rapids are gonna have to determine the pace of the game against San Jose early with the offense. Rapids have to score early and first causing San Jose to have the added pressure to chase them. But the Rapids cant immediately go into parking the bus, they will have to do like they did last week and continue to look for goals. #keepfighting #shieldhunting

The Rapids today have added to their midfield with Sam Cronin from the San Jose Earthquakes for allocation money. Cronin is a 6 year veteran and was the 3rd pick overall in the 2009 MLS Super Draft out of Wake Forest University. Full story here.

Welcome Sam Cronin!

Jose Mari and the Rapids are officially done. Jose Mari over the weekend signed a one and half year contract with La Liga side, Levante U.D. and will wear the number 25. Story here.